Summary: Young Archie Dent knows there really are monster in the world. His parents are members of the Septemberist Society, whose job it is to protect humanity from hideous giants called the Mangleborn. Trapped in underground prisons for a thousand years, the giant monsters have been all but forgotten -- but now they are rising again as the steam-driven America of 1875 rediscovers electricity, the lifeblood of the Mangleborn.
When his parents and the rest of The Septemberists are brainwashed by one of the evil creatures, Archie must assemble a team of seven young heroes to save the world.
Thoughts: I absolutely loved this book! From the very beginning the cast sparked with life! They weren't amazing or incredible, they didn't leap off the page or suck you in; they beckoned with hidden potential and a swirl of mystery and by the time you get any answers you're hooked!
Aside from the fantastic cast, the plot kept twisting and turning and keeping you guessing and rarely slowed down for more than a breath before rolling full speed ahead again! The steampunk versus electricity is an interesting aspect that keeps you guessing and adds to the extensive world building.
The writing was really good. Most of the story is told through the eyes of the three children, the oldest of which is fourteen and the mos prominent is eleven. While the voice isn't inspiring or awing, they feel real and you understand when they're scared, hurt, or excited. You really learn to feel for the characters.
Content: A bit of fantasy violence, some mention of blood. Some magical properties such as the Mangleborn and they're abilities that resemble those of a Greek myth. The monsters could be frightening to sensitive or really young children.
All in all, a pretty clean book for most middle grade readers and older.
No comments:
Post a Comment